The Education ministry has been urged to incorporate vital information on sickle cell anaemia in the new school curriculum.

Sickle Cell Foundation co-ordinator Martin Oracha said the disease affects many school-going children who do not know how to manage it,leading to absenteeism or dropping out of school.

Speaking during the world Sickle Cell Anaemia Day in Siaya, Oracha said the disease was rampant among school children in the Nyanza and Coast regions hence needs the necessary attention.

“We request the ministry to incorporate vital health information on sickle cell anaemia in the new curriculum. Students ought to be aware of the effects of the disease and how to manage it,” said Oracha.

“There is also the challenge of medication. The cost of treatment is exorbitant. We appeal to the government to offer free medication just like it happens with the HIV/Aids programmes,” he added.

Raising concerns over blood shortage, Oracharequested the government to make blood banks in the country functional so that patients can easily be treated.

He appealed to the society to embrace children with sickle cell anaemia and accord them the necessary care so that they live a normal life.